Particle.news

Download on the App Store

UK’s £650m Electric Car Grant Draws Criticism Over Eligibility and Charger Gaps

Industry figures warn that restrictive price caps coupled with complex eligibility rules leave most electric models ineligible

Image
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • The grant scheme went live on July 20 and offers up to £3,750 off new electric cars priced at or below £37,000, with dealers set to apply discounts within weeks.
  • The government simultaneously unveiled a £63 million fund to expand EV charging infrastructure across public and private sites.
  • Experts note that around 70 percent of new EV models exceed the £37,000 cap, meaning most cars will not qualify for the subsidy.
  • Manufacturers face uncertainty because eligibility is tied to Science Based Targets and vehicle assembly locations, complicating model approval.
  • Stakeholders warn that inadequate charging coverage, especially for the 40 percent of households without driveways, continues to deter private EV buyers.